Overview
Prunus communis (L.) Arcang. is a deciduous fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is commonly known as European plum or common plum and is extensively cultivated throughout the world for its edible fruit.
Origin
The origin of the European plum is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Western Asia and spread to Europe through natural means or by human intervention. It has been cultivated for its fruit for thousands of years, and many cultivars have been produced and dispersed throughout Europe, Asia, and North America.
Appearance
The European plum can grow up to 10 meters in height and has a dense, rounded crown. It has smooth bark that is dark red-brown in color and leaves that are ovate or oval-shaped. The fruit of the common plum varies in size, shape, and color, ranging from red, purple, blue, and yellow. The flesh is juicy and sweet, with a firm texture.
Uses
The fruit of the European plum is used both fresh and dried, and is commonly used to make jams, jellies, compotes, and baked goods. It is also used to make plum brandy and plum wine. The bark, leaves, and fruit of the common plum have been used in traditional medicine for their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
Light Requirements
Prunus communis typically requires full sun to grow and develop properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but the fruit yield may be affected. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the tree in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Prunus communis can grow in a wide range of temperature conditions, however, its growth and fruit yield are affected by extreme temperatures. The tree can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C during winter dormancy but may be damaged by late frosts during the budding phase. During the growing season, temperatures between 21-27°C are ideal for proper growth and fruit development.
Soil Requirements
Prunus communis can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers a well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It can tolerate a slightly acidic soil but may suffer in alkaline soils. The tree can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils but requires good drainage to avoid waterlogging. The addition of organic matter, such as compost or manure, can enhance the soil quality and improve tree growth and fruit yield.
Cultivation methods
Prunus communis (L.) Arcang., commonly referred to as the European plum, is a fruit-bearing shrub that requires proper cultivation methods for optimal growth. The plant thrives in moderate climates and can grow up to 5-6 meters tall. It is important to plant Prunus communis in a well-draining soil rich in organic matter at a depth of 60cm and 4-6 meters apart. The plant should receive full sun exposure and should be protected from strong winds. The best planting season is in late winter to early spring when the ground is neither too wet nor too dry.
Watering needs
Prunus communis requires regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth. Young plants should be watered twice a week, and mature plants once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During rainy seasons, watering should be reduced, and during hot and dry seasons, watering should be increased. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid water loss through evaporation, which can lead to soil dehydration.
Fertilization
Prunus communis requires fertilization to enhance growth and fruit production. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are recommended during the first year of growth. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers promote foliage growth while phosphorus promotes root growth and fruit formation. Potassium improves the overall health of the plant and enhances its resistance to diseases. It is important to note that excessive fertilizer application can lead to foliage burn, and thus the recommended dosage should be followed strictly.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential care practice for Prunus Communis as it enhances its structure, promotes airflow, and improves fruit production. The best time to prune is during late winter or early spring before the buds start to swell. Pruning should be done to remove dead, diseased, and overcrowded branches to promote airflow and sunlight penetration. Pruning also helps to shape the plant and minimize its size to achieve optimal fruit production. The use of sharp tools such as pruning shears and loppers is recommended to avoid crushing the bark, which can lead to plant injuries and diseases.
Propagation methods for Prunus communis (L.) Arcang.
Prunus communis (L.) Arcang., commonly known as the European plum or common plum, can be propagated through various methods such as seed germination, budding, grafting, and cuttings.
Seed germination
Seed propagation is the most natural method of reproduction for Prunus communis; however, it is not commonly used in commercial production due to the variability in seedlings. It is essential to use stratification (cool, moist) treatments on the seeds to ensure uniform germination. Seeds are typically planted in the fall and require 60-70 days of stratification before experiencing warm temperatures in the spring, allowing germination to occur.
Budding and Grafting
The budding technique, also known as chip budding, is one of the most common methods used in commercial production. It involves taking a bud from a desirable tree, placing it on the stem of a rootstock (usually Prunus domestica or Prunus cerasifera), and then wrapping the bud with a compatible cover slip. The slipper is removed after around two weeks, and growth is typically seen within a month.
Grafting is another common method of propagating Prunus communis and is used to produce dwarf, semi-dwarf, or standard trees. In grafting, two plants of different types are spliced together to create a single, fruit-producing specimen. The scion is typically selected for its favorable characteristics, such as fruit quality or disease resistance, and grafted onto the rootstock of the selected cultivar.
Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a less commonly used method in Prunus communis but can be used in situations where there is limited space and propagating a small number of plants is required. Cuttings are taken in the fall or winter, and the preferred method is hardwood cuttings. The cuttings are usually around 8 inches long and then dipped into a rooting hormone before planting in a growing medium. They are then covered with plastic to regulate temperature and humidity and left to root for up to 12 weeks.
Disease Management
Prunus communis (L.) Arcang. or wild cherry tree is susceptible to various diseases that can potentially harm its growth and development. The following are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Black knot: This is a fungal disease that causes swollen, black growths on the twigs and branches, which can weaken or kill parts of the tree. To control the spread of this disease, affected branches should be pruned and destroyed.
- Bacterial canker: This disease manifests as sunken patches of dead bark on the trunk and branches, and can eventually lead to tree death. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed, and the wounds should be treated with a copper fungicide.
- Shot hole: This is a fungal disease that causes small, circular holes in the leaves, which eventually turn brown and fall off. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide should be used to prevent the disease from spreading.
Practicing good sanitation and cultural practices such as regular pruning, watering, and fertilizing can help prevent the occurrence of these diseases.
Pest Management
The wild cherry tree is also susceptible to various pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are some common pests that might affect the tree:
- Cherry fruit fly: This pest lays eggs into the fruit, causing it to rot and fall from the tree prematurely. To control cherry fruit flies, use insecticidal sprays and traps.
- Cherry slug: The larvae of this pest feed on the leaves, causing damage and defoliation. To control cherry slugs, physical removal, and insecticidal soaps can be used.
- Japanese beetle: Adult Japanese beetles feed on the foliage, leading to defoliation. To control Japanese beetles, insecticidal sprays and traps can be used.
Regular inspection of the tree and the use of insecticidal sprays or biological controls can help prevent pest infestations and damage to the plant.
